Digital Transformation of Agriculture: A Study of Precision Technology Adoption from the Perspective of Farmers' Social Systems

Rizky Pratama; Siti Nurhaliza; Andi Kurniawan

Authors

Rizky Pratama Universitas Gadjah Mada Author
Siti Nurhaliza Universitas Gadjah Mada Author
Andi Kurniawan Universitas Brawijaya Author

Keywords:

Agricultural Digital Transformation, Precision Agriculture, Rice Farmers, Social System

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the adoption of precision agriculture technologies in agricultural digital transformation from the perspective of farmers’ social systems. The study focuses on how rice farmers understand, evaluate, accept, delay, or reject digital technologies in their daily farming practices. A qualitative case study design was used in Ciasem Subdistrict, Subang Regency, West Java, Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, limited participatory observation, and documentation involving rice farmers, farmer group leaders, agricultural extension workers, local agricultural officers, cooperative managers, and technology facilitators. The findings reveal five main themes: farmers’ practical understanding of precision agriculture, trust-based technology adoption, cost and skill barriers, the role of farmer groups and extension workers, and gradual changes in farming decision-making. The study shows that precision agriculture adoption is not merely a technical process, but a socially mediated process shaped by trust, peer influence, local knowledge, institutional support, and technology compatibility with farming routines. These findings contribute to innovation diffusion and digital agriculture studies by emphasizing the role of farmers’ social systems in technology adoption. Practically, the study suggests that digital agriculture programs should strengthen digital literacy, continuous mentoring, demonstration-based learning, and inclusive policy support. Future research may compare adoption processes across regions, commodities, and farmer generations.

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